Fresh from the Temple – First-Level Buddhist Studies Course Launched to Build Moral Character
Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment launched a Buddhist studies program on May 7 to strengthen moral character among staff, with monks and laypeople studying Buddha's teachings across three certification levels.
On Thursday, May 7, 2025, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment organized a 'First-Level Buddhist Studies' training program to cultivate moral character within the agency. Phra Phrom Wachirat (Sophon Sophoncitto), abbot of Wat Devoraj Kunchorn and Regional Sangha Chief, led the opening ceremony and offered Buddhist guidance to executives, civil servants, and staff participants at the Trideach Sacred Conference Room on the second floor of the Pollution Control Department building.
Secretary-General Ravewan Phuridech opened the program with a report. Phra Phrom Wachirat expressed great appreciation for all ministry personnel who enrolled in the Buddhist Studies program at various levels—from first-level to advanced—following Wat Devoraj Kunchorn's official establishment as a Buddhist studies institution on May 30, 2024, offering instruction in both Buddhist doctrine and Pali language studies.
The Buddhist doctrine studies curriculum involves learning the Buddha's teachings according to Buddhist principles found in the Tipitaka, designed for monks, novices, students, and the general public to develop understanding and apply these teachings to mental development, practice their faith, and foster peaceful coexistence in society based on the threefold training of morality, concentration, and wisdom.
Phra Phrom Wachirat explained that Buddhist studies are divided into three levels: first-degree, second-degree, and advanced degree scholars. The monastic community has also authorized laypeople to take these examinations. He emphasized that proper goal-setting in life is crucial for societal flourishing, noting that both monks and laypeople with solid education, ethical foundation, and wisdom can support social progress and personal success.
He further elaborated that proper life direction is the first step toward happiness and advancement, as pursuing knowledge without a righteous foundation leads nowhere. True progress requires setting correct life goals based on right livelihood before seeking knowledge and capabilities, then pursuing those goals with diligence, preparation, and perseverance.
In the 2025 academic year, Wat Devoraj Kunchorn's institute, in cooperation with the office of the Ministry's Secretary-General, launched this practical training course.
